by Denise Barkley
Developed and originally made popular in Australia, the Silky Terrier is one of the small dogs breed that are dominating the hearts of the toy-dog-loving fanciers of the world. In the US, this little dog is called the Silky Terrier. In Australia and other parts of the world, it is called the Australian Silky Terrier or the Sidney Terrier.
This tiny breed of the Land Down Under is highly regarded for being loving, smart, courageous and vigilant. Do not be misguided into thinking, however, that this little breed is merely a lapdog. This breed is too energetic to become one and will in fact make a rather good watchdog.
As an interesting hobby, the Silky loves to dig dirt. It is also very enthusiastic, very curious and intensely loves learning new things. This dog can get happy by merely romping around and running indoors or in a small yard.
Training sessions with this dog are very easy and interesting since it loves to learn and wants the lessons straightforward. This dog is very docile, quick to learn and very keen in acquiring new knowledge. In an apartment dwelling, this dog can still strive happily as it is mostly active indoors and that it only needs daily walks as an outdoor exercise.
Silky Terriers have well-built, low to the ground bodies and 9 to 10 inches of height. Their ears are V-shaped and stand erect while their tails are often docked. Their noses should be black and their eyes are remarkable for being round, dark and grim-looking.
The bodies of the Silky Terriers are beautifully wrapped with 5 to 6 inches of long, fine, and silky soft hair. It is parted at the center on its back and drapes smoothly at the sides which almost reaches the floor. The hair of the Silky has no undercoat, sheds very little and often comes in combinations of blue and fire red, blue and tan markings, and any combinations of the blue shade.
Grooming the Silky Terrier takes commitment as it needs at least 15 minutes of brushing or combing daily. Bathing and trimming its coat regularly keeps it healthy and beautiful. Most Silky Terriers have topknots atop their heads so that hairs are kept from falling over their eyes.
The development of the Silky Terrier was contributed by some other terrier breeds and these are believed to be the Skye, Cairn, Yorkshire and Australian terriers. It was the American servicemen, who were stationed in Australia during WWII, who brought the Silky Terrier to the United States. In 1959, this breed became an official member of the American Kennel Club and in 1962, its first breed standard had been created.
Technorati Tags: animals, Australia, australian silky terrier, australian terrier, dogs, family, home, pets, silky terrier, silky terrier breeders, silky terrier for sale, silky terrier puppies, silky terrier puppies for sale, silky terrier rescue, Webkinz Q&A